Ford PATs System Troubleshooting & How-to Guide

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The Ford Passive Anti-Theft System is one of the most secure car protection features to have been introduced. Since its inception is has become a standard feature in all Ford vehicles as well as other brands. It makes it impossible for your car to start up without the PATS key. However, once in a while, the feature can become buggy, making it impossible to get into your vehicle.

This comprehensive drive teaches you how to use the feature and helps you solve any problems you may face while using the PATs system.

How does the system work?

The PATS keys have a radio frequency transponder embedded in the key fob with a unique electronic identification code. When you turn on your car, the vehicle’s onboard computer sends out a Radio Frequency (RF) signal, which is picked up by the transponder in the key.

The key’s transponder sends back a unique RF signal to the vehicle’s computer. This confirms that the key in use is the correct one, and the car can then startup. If the car’s onboard computer does not receive the proper identification code from the key, the car’s PATS system will prompt a reactionary response. Such as the fuel pump being disabled or the engine becoming immobilized.

How do I reset my Ford PATS system?

If someone attempts to start the vehicle with anything other than the PATS key programmed to that specific vehicle, the PATS system will get triggered. This will cause a red light on the dash to begin flashing faster than usual. The car will remain in this mode until either the proper key is used or 15 minutes have passed.

If neither of the actions above happens, the Securilock engine immobilizer will activate within the time frame, causing your car to be rendered immovable. After this happens, you may need to reset the system if the system does not return to normal after using your PATs key to turn on your car.

Follow the steps to reset the Ford PATS system;

  • Insert the PATs key into the ignition and turn it.
  • Wait 15 minutes until you see the flashing rate on the red light on your dashboard decrease to normal speed, and then try both keys again.
  • If this fails to start the vehicle, raise the hood, disconnect the battery for 15 minutes, reconnect it, and try again.

 How to disable the Ford PATS system

If your PATS system is malfunctioning, it may go off even when there is no potential car theft happening. This may cause it to start flashing or immobilize the engine. In this case, you need to disengage the system to drive your car. Here are the three main ways of disabling the PATS system;

  • Using the Key and The Car Door

Start by inserting the key in the car door on the driver’s side. Then turn the key to unlock the system, but do not take the keys out. Let the key stay in the keyhole for at least 20-30 seconds. This lets the system pick up the key’s RF signal and disengage the PATs system. You can also wiggle the key to engage the signal.

  • Using the Key and Cylinder Scrutiny

Ensure the key fob has a charged or working battery. A dead battery will not provide the key with the power needed to disable the PATs alarm system. Replace the dead battery and repeat the disabling process. Then check the car door lock cylinder to see if it has been tampered with and fixed.

  • Getting The Vehicle Started

To start your cars after the engine has been immobilized, insert your key into the ignition and leave the key there for at least 10-15 minutes. This will reset the system and mobilize your engine. Check to see if the dashboard anti-theft light has faded or turned blue. It should turn off once the system is disengaged.

Then turn off the key and wait for 2-3 minutes before starting the car again. It may take several tries before the car’s PATS system is disengaged. If it does not work after multiple attempts, you may need to get your vehicle towed to a car shop for professional help.

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Can you bypass the PATS system?

Yes. You can bypass the Ford Anti-Theft System. To bypass the PATS system, follow the following steps;

  • Ensure all the doors are closed.
  • Then turn off the ignition of the automobile.
  • Insert the key into the ignition and turn to the “On” position.
  • Press the power button three times and turn off the ignition.
  • Then press the power door to unlock the button three more times.
  • Finally, turn the key back on.

How do I reprogram my Ford PATS key?

Programming PATS keys is necessary when you lose a key or need to make a spare key. However, you can only program two keys at a time. As such, always program an extra for emergencies before programming a new set of PATS keys.

Steps to program new PATS keys;

  • You need two original keys to complete the program. Buy a New PATS key from your local dealer and have it cut to match your original key.
  • Insert one of the original keys into the ignition.
  • Turn the ignition cylinder ON (RUN) for three seconds, then turn it back to OFF.
  • Wait ten seconds, then remove the first original key and insert the second original key.
  • Then turn to ON (RUN) the second key, leave it on for three seconds, and then turn it back to OFF.
  • Wait ten more seconds, then insert the new key and turn to ON for three seconds, then turn back to OFF.
  • Once the programming is complete, the “security” light on the dash will illuminate three seconds.
  • Repeat this process for any additional keys.

Note: ensure the blank key used is compatible with your car’s computer transponder before starting the programming process. You should also check to see if the key is blank to avoid a programming fail.

How to program an additional key using the Snap-on Software

You will need a Snap-on diagnostic tool and software (only applies for 2010 car models and beyond). Older car models can be programmed to relearn without the software.

For newer car models, follow these steps;

  • Connect the scan tool to the vehicle and after identification is complete.
  • Select the anti-theft pat system.
  • Go to functional tests> Security Access.
  • You will get a message stating that the PCM controls the anti-theft functions on this vehicle and that Ford anti-theft systems are referred to as PATS – Passive Anti-Theft System.
  • You will also be instructed to wait ten minutes for security access to be granted for you to carry out the programming process.
  • Once the ten-minute period is over, you will be presented with several options:
  1. Customer Spare Key Programming Enable
  2. Customer Spare Key Programming Disable
  3. Erase All Keys
  4. Number of Keys Programmed
  5. Program Additional Ignition Key
  6. Unlimited Key Mode
  • Choose “Program Additional Ignition Key.”
  • Place the un-programmed key into the vehicle’s ignition and then press Continue.
  • The operation only takes a few seconds to complete and must be repeated with at least one additional key.
  • When you click on the “Number of Keys Programmed” box, the number of programmed keys will be displayed.
  • Start the vehicle with the newly programmed key to verify that it works correctly.

Note: The scan tool says that the procedure will program ignition keys equipped with appropriate transponder chips to the PATS system. Ensure you have make sure that the keys you program is right for the vehicle.

How do you test a Ford PATS key?

You need to ensure the Ford PATS key is blank before programming it, or else your reprogramming will not be successful. Follow the steps below to check if the PATS key is blank using FORScan;

  • Insert the blank key in the ignition lock.
  • Then find the module where PATS is located in the FORScan app.
  • Go to the Service tab and look for the module that has the PATS programming function. The location varies on the car model; you may find it at the PCM, PATS, IC, or HEC, etc.
  • Read the DTC for the PATS module in the Errors section – for newer car models with CAN bus. For the older car models, run the PATS module self-test in the Tests section.
  • The DTC codes displayed include;
  • B1601 code (B10D7:51 for new PATS), your blank key can be programmed for your vehicle.
  • B1600 code (B10D7:87 for new PATS), the PATS system couldn’t recognize your blank key and is not compatible with your vehicle.
  • B1602 code (sometimes simultaneously with B1600, B1601) (B10D7:8F for new PATS), the PATS system cannot get a stable reading of your key transponder. This often happens with clones. Try switching the transponder to another place of the key fob. Replace the transponder if it still won’t work.
  • B2431 code, Transponder Programming Failed.
  • B1600 or the B1601 codes, the key you are using is already programmed in the PCM.
  • Contact customer support if the test displays a different code.

Note: You will need a reliable OBD2 adapter to check the blank PATS key using FORScan. Note: For FORScan coding modifications, we recommend using the OBD2 USB adapter to provide a more stable connection.

Ford PATS system not detecting my key

The inability to unlock or lock your car can be highly stressful. Not to worry, the solution is easier than you think. Here are common reasons why your vehicle cannot detect your key fob;

  • The battery inside the remote is dead.
  • The key fob is broken or no longer programmed to your car.
  • The car battery is low.
  • The keyless operation system is faulty.

If the key fob has a low battery, replace the battery and check to see if it works. If this does not work, use your spare key to open the car or start the car. Or you can use your physical backup key. However, newer car models with a push-button start do not use a physical key.

In this instance, locate the hidden slot near the steering column and press the start button with the key. Your car may still be able to detect the dead key fob in case of emergencies.  In some cases, all you need to do is warm up the key, as extreme weather can mess up the computer chip.

Ford PATS relearn procedure.

The relearn procedure helps to put the car in learn mode. The PATS relearn process is mandatory after replacing the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

Before attempting a PATS relearn, the replacement PCM must be calibrated to current vehicle specifications. The Flash2 All-Makes Reprogrammer can be used for this purpose. In addition to flashing, Vehicle Identification Block programming may be required for some applications.

Replacing PCM only — A or D type PATS

If only the PCM is being replaced on a PATS control function type A or D vehicle, no relearn is required (please refer to the Ford PATS chart to determine PATS type). Put the original key in the ignition, turn to ON or RUN and wait for 20 seconds. Then turn the key off and start the vehicle.

Replacing PCM only — B, C, F, or G type PATS

If only the PCM is being replaced on a PATS control function type B, C, F, or G vehicle, you must perform the Parameter Reset function. This requires a scan tool with the Parameter Reset function or the J2534 CARDONE Flash2 All-Makes Reprogrammer with a Ford license and a subscription to Ford Module Programming (FMP).

The tool and software used will give specific instructions to follow. The general steps are listed below.

  1. Cycle a key in the ignition to RUN
  2. Enter Security Access on the PATS control function module. For type B, it will be the PATS module, for type C, the Instrument Cluster, for type F, the PCM, for type G, the Instrument Cluster Module. (This takes 10 minutes).
  3. Select “Parameter Reset” and exit Security Access.
  4. Select a PCM Keep Alive Memory (KAM) reset.
  5. Start vehicle.

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Replacing PCM only — E type PATS.

If the PCM is being replaced on a PATS control function type E vehicle, two keys need to be programmed into the PCM. This requires a scan tool with the capability to program PATS type E keys or a CARDONE Flash2 All-Makes Reprogrammer with Ford license and subscription to www.motorcraftservice.com. The tool and software used will give specific instructions to follow. The general steps are listed below.

  1. Cycle key 1 to RUN
  2. Enter Security Access on PATS control function module. (This takes 10 minutes).
  3. Select “Ignition Key Code Erase.”
  4. Disconnect the tool and leave the key in RUN position for 20 seconds
  5. Cycle key 1 to OFF, then RUN, and back to OFF.
  6. Cycle key 2 to RUN, then OFF.
  7. Start the car.

Note: Identify the type of security system your application may or may not have before replacing the PCM. This will prevent the disappointment of a no-start after the replacement PCM is installed. Refer to the Ford PATS Guide for detailed relearn procedures.

Ford PATS Fault Codes and Their Meaning

ERROR CODE PROBLEM
B1213 Less than 2 (or three if equipped w/Valet key) keys programmed to the system.
B1232/B2103 Transceiver internal antenna damaged. Replace transceiver.
B1342 ECU is defective (EEPROM in PCM is not working- replace PCM). PATS related when stored in PCM only.
B1600 Non-PATS key or damaged key.
B1601 Unprogrammed encoded ignition key detected (leave the ignition on for 20 seconds before trying a programmed key, in Anti-Scan Mode).
B1602 Partial detection of the encoded ignition key.
B1681 Transceiver signal not detected.
B2141 Non-Volatile Memory (NVM) configuration failure – No PCM ID stored in PATS.
B2139 PCM ID does not match between the PCM and PATS control (PATS/ICM/VIC/HEC/SCIL).
B2431 Key programmed failure (defective key or transceiver)
U1147/U1262 Communications issue, SCP (J1850), between PCM and PATS control (PATS/ICM/VIC/HES/SCIL).
P1260 PCM disabled the vehicle because of a PATS concern. Retrieve DTC’S from the applicable PATS control function

(PATS/ICM/VIC/HES/SCIL).